Air Quality Board Rejects Two Rules Written to Ban Gas Water Heaters and Furnaces

June 10, 2025

The South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Governing Board rejected two proposed rules that would have eliminated gas water heaters and furnaces in Southern California with a 7-5 vote on June 6. The amendments to Rules 1111 and 1121 were designed to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by requiring 17 million residents across four counties to convert to electric heating units. The proposal included manufacturer requirements for low-NOx and zero-NOx emission standards and mitigation fees for non-compliant units.

Who is affected

17 million residents in Southern California (across Riverside, Orange, San Bernardino, and parts of Los Angeles counties)
Businesses, homeowners, and renters who would have been required to convert to electric units
Manufacturers of water heating and space units
Working families, small businesses, and the middle class identified as bearing financial burdens

What action is being taken

The SCAQMD Governing Board is rejecting the proposed amendments to Rules 1111 and 1121
The Cost of Living Council is organizing community leaders to oppose the rules
Board member Carlos Rodriguez indicates the board is moving forward with other policy agenda items
The Latino Consumer Federation is advocating against the rules through its executive director

Why it matters

The rules were designed to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions from natural gas-fired furnaces and water heaters
The board's decision has broader implications for California's energy policy
Opponents argue the regulations would create financial hardships for residents and businesses
Board member Holly Mitchell emphasized the responsibility to work toward cleaner air
Critics including Villaraigosa claim the electrical grid is not prepared for such widespread conversion

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint